Dimitrenko out of IBF tourney

Who will challenge Wladimir Klitschko?

By Karl Freitag

Heavyweight Alexander Dimitrenko has pulled out of the IBF’s innovative four fighter box-off to determine the mandatory challenger for Wladimir Klitschko. Dimitrenko was slated to face Johnathon Banks in the first round, with Eddie Chambers to meet Jean Marc Mormeck in the other half of the draw. There are rumors that Mormeck may also withdraw.

With Dimitrenko out, and if the IBF sticks with the four man format, Derric Rossy would be the next available heavyweight in line to step in and fight Banks. Rossy and Banks were actually supposed to fight in July for the NABF title before Banks pulled out with shoulder injury. If Mormeck is also replaced, the next available contender would be Maurice Harris, so this could possibly turn into an all American box-off.